On the suitability of large switched reluctance machines for propulsion applications

This paper presents an overview of different motors used in various large propulsion applications including mining vehicles, railways, and ships. It has been found that mainly induction and synchronous motors are dominating in this application area at present. This paper discusses advantages and disadvantages of such motors used in large traction applications first and then reviews and reports about the suitability of switched reluctance motors (SRMs) emerging as an attractive alternative for large propulsion applications. From the ongoing research, it has been found that SRMs have many merits and will be a better candidate for the propulsion systems of large vehicles.